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There’s no doubt about it. It’s almost impossible to have any kind of garden, no matter how small, without spending at least something. Even though I’ve been gardening for three decades, I am still astounded at the cost of buying plants every time I visit my local nursery.But it’s not just plants that make a garden. Those plants need feeding, pruning with a quality pair of shears and watering. Then, of course, you have the added expense of buying containers if you’re not planting straight into beds.If you are new to gardening, the costs could put you off before you even get started. However, there are smart ways to build a garden on a budget, using clever planting ideas. With the help of expert gardeners, I share the best ways to create a beautifully planted garden for less.1. Focus on long-term value
(Image credit: Shutterstock)The key to planting a budget garden is to think long-term. “Start by looking at perennials. You buy them once, and they come back every year,” says Lindsey Chastain, founder and editor at Waddle and Cluck. And although she says you have a higher upfront cost, you can build up your collection over time.As an alternative to buying plants, James Syrett, co-founder and garden designer at Byrga Geniht, suggests starting them from seed. “the outlay is about as low as it gets,” he says.What’s more, he adds that most seeds can be sown outside after the last frost, and you don’t need to go to the expense of buying a greenhouse.Plants to tryChastain recommends growing hardy geraniums, purple coneflowers, yarrow, and creeping thyme.Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.2. Prioritize plants that self-seed and multiply
